What's New in Wound Healing Treatment Options?

Why are Some Wounds Slow to Heal?

Some wounds – depending on severity or if you have pre-existing health conditions, like diabetes, protein malnutrition or a thyroid issue – are slower to heal. This means more innovative treatment options may be needed.

Additionally, other new technology may add to the effectiveness of these treatments. For example, a study on a new battery-operated ultrasound patch shows that the patch looks promising for the future of wound healing. The patch sits on the wound, like a Band-Aid, and delivers ultrasound that appears to accelerate healing for something called a venous ulcer.

“Venous leg ulcers typically occur in what we call the gator area … on the lower aspect of the leg,” Dr. Masturzo explains. “They typically occur below the calf – in between the ankle and the calf.”

Other Wound Healing Options Currently Being Tested

There are a variety of other wound treatments currently in testing, as well. “Everything from growth factor cell sprays to achieve healing, to technologies like this, that use ultrasound, [and] others that use electrical current. There are some that are using negative pressure to actually pull on the cells to stimulate healing,” Dr. Masturzo says.